Marco Rubio stresses intertwined destiny of US and Europe at security conference

WorldPolitics
14 Feb 2026 • 5:48 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State, addressed the Munich Security Conference, stressing the intertwined destiny of the United States and Europe, in contrast to a previous critical speech by JD Vance.
  • Rubio criticised past Western mistakes, labelling the “rules-based global order” a 'dangerous delusion' and stating that the UN has failed on pressing global matters.
  • He emphasised that the US expects seriousness and reciprocity from European allies, while acknowledging shared responsibility for past errors and the need to rebuild.
  • Rubio's absence from a meeting of Ukraine's allies at the conference raised concerns among Europeans about US commitment to the conflict.
  • Sir Keir Starmer is expected to call for increased European defence spending and closer ties with the EU, arguing against reliance on America and warning against inward-looking policies.

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